A Cottage by John Varley

A Cottage 

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Dimensions: support: 100 x 160 mm

Copyright: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate

Editor: This is John Varley's "A Cottage," housed at the Tate. The monochromatic wash gives it a somewhat somber mood, almost like a fading memory. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The effectiveness lies in its stark contrasts. Observe the placement of dark masses against lighter washes; the application of the medium creates a sense of depth, despite the minimal detail. Do you agree? Editor: I do. The way the composition leads the eye from the foreground to the trees behind the cottage is quite effective. Curator: Precisely. The artist's skillful manipulation of tone allows the viewer to fill in the details, engaging them in the act of creation itself. I find that fascinating. Editor: It does make you pause and look closer! I never considered the viewer's role in that way. Thanks!

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tate's Profile Picture
tate about 1 month ago

http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/varley-a-cottage-t09364

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